Facilitator's Guide: - College in Colorado

Grade 11, Taking Tests 1: Introduction to ACT/SAT (ACT Version)
notion of a “standardized test,” many (especially if their parents didn’t attend college) won’t
know that taking the SAT or ACT is different – you don’t just show up and wing it. Students need
to learn that they must prepare for this test well in advance, logistically as well as academi-
cally. They’ll have registration deadlines to meet, fee waivers to apply for (if eligible), deci-
sions to make about which tests and test options to choose. Plus, they need to recognize it’s a
huge advantage to be familiar with the test, and to be armed with the appropriate test-taking
strategies.
To point students in the right direction, you should motivate them to become pro-active about
taking the ACT. Give out test dates and locations, recommend helpful websites that post practice
tests, and inform students about community test-prep resources.
IMPLEMENTATION OPTIONS ...........................................................
For Activity II, Why and Why Now? you could structure this as a discussion, and then just point
students to the Student Handbook page 46, Why and Why Now? for reference.
Another option for Activity II is to ham it up a bit, by turning this into a role-playing exercise.
You would assume the role of a college admissions officer (donning a bowtie, letter sweater, or
college cap) and let students ask you questions about “Why and Why Now?” Then, point them
to Student Handbook page 46, Why and Why Now? as a summary of your answers.
For Activity III, Sizing up the Heavyweights: ACT vs SAT, you may choose to turn this activity
into a competition. Allow students to scan Student Handbook page 47, Sizing up the Heavy-
weights: ACT vs SAT, for one minute, then ask students questions that are addressed in the
handbook page. You may wish to give prizes to students to correctly answer a question.
For Activity IV, Getting into the Act, with ACT, you might suggest your students take notes and
circle information they’ll want to complete outside of class.
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